Basic Outline for a Proposal Paper

I. Introduction

A. Hook

B. Interesting general discussion

C. Thesis (specific, unified, restricted)—claim (+ organizational method)

II. Body [NOTE: Though the outline below suggests a one-paragraph-per-section structure, you may, in practice, need more than one paragraph to complete any or all of the sections]

A. Proof that your problem exists

1. Topic sentence

2. Several body sentences providing relevant and sufficient supporting evidence and clear explanations of exactly what the problem is

3. Concluding sentence

B. Identification and examination of several possible solutions that could be implemented, and explanations/proof why these alternative solutions would not work

1. Topic sentence

2. Several body sentences providing relevant and sufficient supporting evidence and clear explanations

3. Concluding sentence

C. Discussion of YOUR solution

1. What is your detailed, step-by-step, sequential plan for solving the above problem, and why is each step necessary, and how does each one work?

a. Topic sentence

b. Several body sentences providing relevant and sufficient supporting evidence and clear explanations

c. Concluding sentence

2. What reasons can you provide that this is, in fact, the best solution?

a. Topic sentence

b. Several body sentences providing relevant and sufficient supporting evidence and clear explanations

c. Concluding sentence

3. How will you deal with the costs of your solution, if any? [NOTE: “cost” could refer not just to money but also to time, effort, etc.]

a. Topic sentence

b. Several body sentences providing relevant and sufficient supporting evidence and clear explanations

c. Concluding sentence

D. Refutation of alternative arguments

1. Topic sentence

2. Several body sentences providing relevant and sufficient supporting evidence and clear explanations

3. Concluding sentence

III. Conclusion—sums up your main points, makes final plea to audience to come to your side and do what you’ve asked